Vasectomy in Long Island, NY
A vasectomy is a form of birth control during which the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm, are cut. When the tubes are cut, there is no way for sperm to be released from the penis. This procedure is considered a permanent form of birth control, but it is possible to have a vasectomy reversal surgery should the patient change their mind in the future.
If you are no longer interested in having children and are considering a vasectomy, contact Dr. David Peters to discuss the benefits of a vasectomy and learn more about the procedure. To scheudle a consultation at our men’s health clinic in Long Island, NY, please call (516) 758-8600 or request an appointment online. If you are located throughout Long Island, Suffolk County, Garden City, and Southeast New York and are seeking a vasectomy, contact us today.
Benefits of a Vasectomy
It is recommended that men only get a vasectomy when they are certain that they no longer wish to have children.
Vasectomy is the preferred choice of birth control for many couples because:
- The use of male birth control (condoms) or female birth control (pills, IUDs, etc.) is no longer needed
- The procedure is almost 100 percent certain to prevent pregnancy
- It is much less expensive than female sterilization
- it is much less invasive than female sterilization
Note on Sperm Banking: It is reasonable to bank sperm prior to vasectomy (freezing sperm), in case the patient decides later to have more children, as vasectomy reversal is not always successful
Anatomy of Vasectomy
Ejaculation is the pathway for sperm to leave the body
- sperm formation starts in each testicle
- sperm travels from testicle and epididymis -> vas deferens (tube)
- sperm travels through vas deferens -> through prostate -> receives fluid (semen) from seminal vesicle and prostate
- through prostate -> urethra -> expelled out of the penis
In most cases, a vasectomy will be performed in-office with the patient awake using local anesthetic and is considered an outpatient procedure. Full (general) anesthesia is not typically required.
Traditional local anesthetic involves a (2) injections with a small needle
- the skin
- through the skin and along the sheath of the vas deferens ( see below)
Traditional Vasectomy
A scalpel (knife) is used to create two small incisions on either side of the scrotum. The surgeon will locate the right and left vas deferens through the respective incisions and remove a small section of each vas deferens. Each vas deferens is ligated with surgical clips, and cauterized, so that they are closed and can no longer transport sperm. The incisions are closed with suture (stitch).
“No-Scalpel” Vasectomy
This is the preferred approach for Dr. Peters
Dr. Peters will typically use “Scalpel Free” injector that injects a fine “jet stream” of liquid anesthetic (lidocaine). The stream is typically the size of a hair follicle, and is virtually painless. It is ideal for patients with a fear of sharp objects.
Dr. Peters is then able to access the vas deferens through one small hole in the midline of the scrotum.
Dr. Peters will locate both the right and left vas deferens through the one small opening and remove a small section of each vas deferens.
Each vas deferens is ligated with surgical clips, and cauterized, so that they are closed and can no longer transport sperm. The small opening may be closed with suture (stitch).
- Expect mild bruising and swelling after vasectomy – these symptoms should subside after a few days
- Apply ice packs to the scrotum every few hours to help control bruising and swelling
- Wear tight-fitting underwear the first week after vasectomy so that the scrotum is provided with extra support
- Avoid bathing for about 24-48 hours after vasectomy
- Avoid strenuous activity for the first week after vasectomy
- Avoid sexual activity and ejaculation for the first week after vasectomy
- Most patients are able to return to their normal level of activity after one week from vasectomy
Sex After a Vasectomy
- Avoid sexual activity and ejaculation for the first week after vasectomy
- Important: You may remain fertile for several months after a successful vasectomy
- Dr. Peters will order a semen analysis at 3 months after vasectomy to confirm absence of sperm in your semen (ejaculate)
- You must continue birth control during any sexual intercourse encounter after vasectomy until a documented absence of sperm
- Vasectomy will not affect your sex drive and orgasms
- Occasionally, men feel a slight pressure in their testicles when aroused – eventually that feeling will go away
Schedule a Vasectomy Consultation in Long Island Today!
If you are considering a vasectomy as a form of male sterilization, contact Island Men’s Health to discuss your options with Dr. David Peters. To learn more about the Vasectomy and No-Scalpel Vasectomy procedure, please give us a call at (516) 758-8600. Dr. Peters provides comprehensive care for men located in Long Island, Suffolk County, Garden City, and Southeast New York.